Will the ISL Launch on February 14 with All Teams Participating?
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Synopsis
Exciting news for football fans! The Indian Super League (ISL) is officially set to kick off on February 14, as confirmed by Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. After a period of uncertainty involving key stakeholders, all 14 teams are ready to participate. Stay tuned for more details about the upcoming season!
Key Takeaways
- The ISL will commence on February 14.
- All 14 teams have agreed to participate in the league.
- Negotiations between FSDL and AIFF had caused delays.
- Players are calling for clarity and support from FIFA.
- Details regarding the tournament format will be shared shortly.
New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) The eagerly anticipated new season of the Indian Super League (ISL) is confirmed to begin on February 14, as announced by Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya during a press briefing in New Delhi.
The league faced uncertainty following the breakdown of negotiations between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which left the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) in question. FSDL had hesitated to initiate the 2025-26 season at the usual schedule due to the MRA set to expire on December 8, 2025, creating confusion on its renewal.
“A lot of uncertainty surrounded the Indian Super League due to a court dispute, but today, the government, AIFF, and representatives from all 14 clubs have reached an agreement to recommence the league. The national football league will officially commence on February 14,” stated Sports Minister Dr. Mandaviya.
He highlighted that all 14 clubs have consented to participate in this year's ISL, with further details to be disclosed regarding the tournament format, broadcasting platforms, and match venues. Following these clarifications, teams will need to reassemble their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season.
Previously, Indian footballers, alongside international stars, called upon FIFA to intervene and resolve the ongoing issues surrounding the franchise-based tournament.
Prominent figures in Indian football, including Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan, and Sunil Chhetri, have publicly urged FIFA to take action during this critical situation in the sport.
“It’s January, and we should be featured on your screens as part of a competitive match in the Indian Super League,” Gurpreet expressed in a video alongside other players. “Instead, we find ourselves compelled to voice our fears and frustrations,” Jhingan remarked. “Players, staff, owners, and fans deserve clarity, protection, and importantly, a future,” Chhetri asserted.
Point of View
I observe that the return of the Indian Super League is a pivotal moment for Indian football. The commitment from all clubs indicates a unified effort to revitalize the league and provide fans with competitive action. It’s essential for stakeholders to ensure transparency and stability moving forward, as the future of the sport relies on it.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the ISL start?
The ISL is set to start on February 14.
How many teams are participating in the ISL?
All 14 teams will participate in this year's ISL.
What caused the delay in the ISL's start?
The delay was due to negotiations between FSDL and AIFF regarding the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement.
What are players saying about the situation?
Prominent players have urged FIFA to intervene and resolve the ongoing issues affecting the league.
Will there be any changes to the tournament format?
Further details about the tournament format and match venues will be announced soon.
